Pierce, who was also the fastest in an opening test session in January at
Phoenix International Raceway, set an unofficial top lap speed of 167.534
mph as 12 of the 14 pre-entered drivers toured the track.

"The car's real good," said the Muncie, Ind. native Pierce, driving the No.
26 Sam Pierce Racing Riley Technologies/Chevy. "It's stable, a little on the
tight side, but I think we'll work that out of it. I think it will be a
pretty good race. As far as the aero push situation, hopefully that won't be
a big factor. It seems like it's pretty easy to pass. The cars really suck
up good when you get behind someone, draft-wise."

Series point leader Dave Steele of Tampa, Fla. set the second fastest speed
(166.283 mph). The 12 competitors took nearly 250 laps, with Chilean Pablo
Donoso leading all drivers with 39 laps completed.

The cars will continue with a one-hour test starting at 5 p.m. tomorrow in
preparation for Saturday's qualifications and 67-lap, 100-mile race.